Global energy markets underwent a significant transformation in 2025, with global liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports recording their largest jump in three years, driven by a surge in new supplies from North America. Recent data from Kpler, a platform specializing in tracking maritime shipping flows, reveals that this growth reflects a market recovery and the positive impact of investments made in the energy sector over the past few years.
Record growth led by the US and Canada
According to Kepler's estimates, global exports rose by 4% compared to last year, reaching a record high of 429 million tons, the largest annual increase recorded since 2022. This rise is mainly attributed to the entry into full operation or expansion of production capacities of mega-projects, most notably the LNG Canada project in Canada and the Blackwater project in the United States.
The United States is currently working to solidify its position as an energy superpower, poised to become the first country in history to export more than 100 million tons of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in a single year. Washington is expected to continue increasing supply, with ambitious plans to double production by the end of this decade, capitalizing on the shale gas revolution and its advanced port infrastructure.
The impact of abundance on global prices
This surge in supply has had a positive impact on consumers, as the abundant flows have led to a significant drop in gas prices in key Asian and European markets. These developments come as a lifeline to Europe, which has suffered from sharp fluctuations in energy prices following the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Indeed, European gas futures have fallen by more than 40% since the beginning of the year, while Asian prices are nearing their lowest levels in a year, supporting industrial sectors and easing inflationary pressures.
Global demand map and future forecasts
On the demand side, data showed that China and Japan continue to dominate the scene as the world’s largest buyers of liquefied natural gas, sharing first place this year, reflecting the continued reliance of major Asian economies on gas as a key transition fuel.
Looking ahead, a report by Bloomberg Intelligence predicted continued positive momentum, forecasting that LNG trading volumes will grow by 7.5% to 8% next year. Analysts believe that lower prices resulting from increased supply will stimulate global demand, particularly in emerging markets that were previously hesitant due to high costs.
